Passion Fruit - Health Benefits and Preparation

Since moving to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil over a year ago, I have been pursuing a healthier lifestyle. One of the main focuses of this healthy lifestyle is my physical health. In my search for healthy, natural foods, I found Passion Fruit.

Passion fruit goes by many other names, such as: Granadilla, Yellow Passion Fruit (because the outside is yellow), and Purple Granadilla (the outside is purple). This miracle fruit is indigenous to Brazil (where I currently reside). The yellow fruit (that I prefer) is from the Amazon, and the purple variety is from southern Brazil. I call this a miracle fruit because after consuming the juice you become very calm and more relaxed. This is a breath of fresh air for someone as high strung as me. Also, passion fruit really helps to lower my blood pressure.

If you are suffering from high cholesterol levels, cancer, constipation, or coronary heart disease, then this fruit could play a key factor in your recovery. Now, we will cover some the nutritional benefits of Passion fruit.

• The juice has a calming and relaxing affect because of its somniferous properties
• The phenolic acids and flavonoids have a heart-protecting function
• Great source of antioxidants
• Lowers cholesterol
• Contains high amounts of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Potassium
• The seeds contain high levels of fiber (digestive help)
• Reduces cancer cell growth
• Aids in reducing weight
• Aids in lowering blood pressure

• Select some passion fruit that is not to hard or soft (4-5).
• Clean the fruit with a scrub brush (to remove pesticides and chemicals)
• Cut the passion fruit in half
• Now, you will see some gooey seeds, and you are probably thinking, “What did I get myself into!” You will thank me later.
• Scoop the seeds and gooey part out and place it in a blender.
• Add about three times the amount of water into the blender.
• Blend for approximately for 1 minute
• Place a strainer over a pitcher (or whatever you are going to use to serve the juice)
• Pour the contents from the blender into the pitcher (You may repeat this step if many seeds are in the pitcher
• The juice itself is strong and a bit tart, so add sugar to taste (2-4 tablespoons)
• Enjoy the flavor and health benefits

Now, if you are suffering from constipation or want to cleanse your digestive tract, then I suggest for you to eat the seeds as well. They are a great source of fiber. You can find passion fruit at any fruit market, grocery store, or health food specialty store.

If you have any questions or want to know more about passion fruit juice or Brazil, then make sure to comment below.